What is an ingrown nail?
Disease description:
Recently, I've noticed severe pain in the toenail area, accompanied by redness and swelling. After a hospital examination, I was diagnosed with ingrown toenail. Could you please explain what an ingrown toenail is?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Ingrown nail, also known as onychocryptosis, is a condition in which the lateral edge of the nail plate (fingernail or toenail) grows into the adjacent soft tissue, penetrating the nail fold like a foreign body and causing local inflammation. Common causes include genetic predisposition, improper footwear (such as pointed high-heeled shoes), and cutting nails too short or too deeply. Ingrown nails most frequently occur in the hallux (big toe) nail, particularly on the lateral side, which is about three times more common than on the medial side. Clinically, ingrown nails can be classified into inflammatory, abscess, and granulation stages, primarily characterized by the nail edge embedding into the nail groove and causing pain; severe cases may significantly affect the patient's daily activities. Treatment typically includes conservative management and surgical intervention, with generally favorable prognosis. To prevent ingrown nails, it is important to wear loose-fitting shoes and avoid excessive trimming of toenails.
